Have a Party!

You've got way too much stuff -- you know you do! And your friends all have way too much stuff, too. I'm not asking you to go cold turkey and get rid of it all, I'm just suggesting that you begin with one little baby step.

Here's how it works. Choose one item that you no longer need, want or use. Choose something nice, not a half-eaten box of saltines or some old, stained sweat pant. You know, choose something that you bought once, and thought you really wanted but then never used. Or something somebody else thought you'd really like but just really isn't your style.

Next, invite a bunch of friends over and ask them to each bring one item that fits the same criteria for them. Mix in a little food, a little drink, perhaps some music and a bit of gossip, and you've got one friggin' fine party. If anyone really wants anything that anyone else brought, they take it. All the stuff that's not wanted gets donated to charity, or sold in your next yard sale to help pay for the food and wine.

We're not talking swap meet here, we're talking about a Simplifying Party or a Recycling Party. A fun way to get rid of, and recycle, nice stuff that you don't want.